PLANS to create homeless accommodation and job-training opportunities for the disadvantaged in Accrington are in the pipeline.

Preston-based Recycling Lives has revealed it plans to build a purpose-built centre in the town aimed at helping both homeless people and those at a disadvantage in the job market, to make a new start.

The award-winning recycling company, which operates an existing centre in Preston, also offers support for small, start up or struggling local businesses by offering a mentoring service and low-cost office space as part of a 'social responsibility' policy.

The firm, which last month won the Queen's Award for Enterprise, recycle a variety of waste materials from scrap metal, cardboard, printer cartridges and old mobile phones, as well as old furniture and electrical goods.

On-site residents are offered educational courses as well as job placements and training.

The news of Recycling Lives' interest in Accrington has been described as 'wonderful' by Maundy Grange founder Dorothy McGregor who said there was a 'desperate need' for job advice and training with the area's homeless.

She said: "We have not been able to work with Recycling Lives yet, as Preston is too far away for us. However if they were to come to Accrington they should make a tremendous impact.

"I have visited their centre and they don't just aim to help people, they get the job done. Job training is so important, because it lifts people lives, gives them hope and gets them involved in doing something of benefit for the community. It makes people feel useful again."

The charity has not yet been able to name a site location yet and bosses said they were still in 'positive' talks with officers at Hyndburn Borough Council. Council leader Peter Britcliffe said: "It sounds very interesting and I look forward to seeing the detailed plans, when they are available."